Type: Round Trip

Distance: 30.1km

Ascent: 810m

Descent: 810m

Fast-Trekking Duration: 6-7h

Start: Yotvata Kibbutz – Ma’ale Shaharut Elementary School parking

End: Yotvata Kibbutz – Ma’ale Shaharut Elementary School parking

GPX File

Israel Hiking Map

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Character: A route skirting the northern edge of the Timna Valley, climbing from Yotvata via Ma’aleh Tzala, continuing along a panoramic stretch of the Israel National Trail, and descending back to Yotvata via Ma’aleh Zugan. The terrain is relatively easy underfoot, yet it feels wild and remote. Ma’aleh Tzala is moderate in gradient. The route makes a short detour to the summit of Har Argaman — simply because it’s too beautiful to ignore. Apart from the optional Argaman spur, the route is committing.

Advantages: Very flowing and runnable terrain. Not technical. Accessible by public transportation.

Disadvantages: Once you climb onto the plateau, the route becomes committing with limited exit options.

Variation: You can shorten the route by about 3 km by skipping the climb up Har Argaman. See route here.